Mediterranean Diet: 6 Great Snacks

The Mediterranean diet provides more than just an eating plan; it is a lifestyle change that promotes healthy habits. By adopting the health practices of the people who inhabit the Mediterranean basin, you can improve your overall health, help your body fight diseases, and reduce your stress levels. These healthy habits include an abundance of regular exercise and a nutritious eating plan. The Mediterranean diet consists of fruits, vegetables, fish, grains and healthy fats, while limiting or eliminating saturated fats and red meat. Here are some great snacks to indulge in while following the Mediterranean diet:

1. Nuts

Nuts are an ideal snack to turn to while on the Mediterranean Diet, as these little guys pack in an abundance of nutrients. However, you have to eat nuts with caution if you are trying to lose weight, as they also pack in a great deal of calories. Limit your nut consumption, and try to eat only 10-20 nuts at a given time. Some food companies, such as Emerald Nuts, take the guess work out for you, and offer 100 calorie packs of nuts.

2. Fruit Salad

It is recommended to consume 9 servings of fruit and vegetables while on the Mediterranean Diet. Fruit makes a great snack and/or dessert and can easily accompany any meal. Cut up your fruit to make a colorful salad, and be sure to add lots of antioxidant-rich berries.

3. Chopped Salad

One great snack choice is to chop up an array of fresh vegetables and make a salad out of them. For instance, you can finely chop some cucumber, peppers and tomatoes and add some low-fat feta or goat cheese to the mix. Flavor your chopped salad with some olive oil and spices, and always stay clear of cream-based salad dressings.

4. Tuna and Crackers

Water-packed, light tuna is a great choice for a nutritious, low-fat snack. Once again, keep mayonnaise and any cream-based dressings out of your tuna salad. Instead, flavor it with olive oil and spices, and add some chopped veggies to the mix. Enjoy your tuna on top of some whole grain crackers.

5. Yogurt

Yogurt is great to snack on while eating Mediterranean-style, but make sure the yogurt you choose is either low- or non-fat. Greek yogurt is also a healthy and nutritious option. To add some flavor and crunch to your yogurt, and further increase the nutrient content, mix in some berries and chopped walnuts.

6. Red Wine

That’s right, you can enjoy happy hour while on the Mediterranean Diet plan, and a glass of red wine is even encouraged! Red wine is rich in antioxidants and may help to boost your overall health. However, make sure you limit your red wine consumption to a glass a day to ensure the beverage is doing your body more good than harm.

The Mediterranean diet is a healthy eating plan that can be followed for life. Make sure you practice portion control while eating this way, as some of the recommended food, while healthy, is calorie-dense. Also, strive to exercise 4 to 5 days a week, and incorporate as much movement into your daily life as possible.

About 3FC

3FC began as a personal source of diet support for sisters Suzanne, Jennifer, and Amy in 1997. The site has grown considerably based on the feedback of the many visitors and sister chicks that found us and decided to call the website home.

The website was acquired by Internet Brands in 2010 and continues to provide the most supportive free weight loss community online!